The branch was formed on August 7, 1928 by foundation members Flo Heath, Marion Delve, Eva Wood and Jean Cavanagh who was elected the first president. Thirty-five women joined the branch at the first meeting and five more joined at the second meeting. 

The CWA held its meetings in the School of Arts hall where Ooranga Curlewis Preschool is now housed. The branch’s rooms on Goran Street were opened on September 30, 1961. The branch moved out of the rooms in 2013 and sold the building in 2016.

The members now meet in the Curlewis community hall where the birthday celebration was held on Monday.

Past and present members of the Willala, Rocky Glen, Emerald Hill, Gunnedah, Quirindi and Manilla branches travelled to Curlewis. Guests included Fiona Foley, the granddaughter of foundation member Marion Delve who received the British Empire Medal for 50 years with the branch.

As always, the branches put on a wonderful spread of sweets and sandwiches and members shared stories as they looked through memorabilia.

Hilary Budden is the longest-serving member of Curlewis, clocking up 54 years.

“They were holding functions in the hall and Mum joined [Jennifer and I] up then,” she said.

“Mum was a member here. We lived 15 miles from Curlewis and 16 miles from Gunnedah.”

Ms Budden said the way members dressed had changed a great deal.

“They all had hats, gloves and handbags,” she said, referring to the photo of the foundation members.

Ms Budden said the branch held many fetes, balls and flower shows when numbers were strong. 

“A few years back, we were very light on members but Breeza closed and we got five members from there,” she said.

“The branches are still strong and still travel a fair way to support each other.”

Curlewis branch president Denise Scott is the second longest-serving member with 41 years.

“I think it’s really lovely that we’ve got to 90 years of CWA in Curlewis,” Mrs Scott said.

“We’re still here in full voice; we’ve got 20 members now.”